Trial date set in gun incident at gay rally

Robert Higgins, who police say aimed a shotgun at a crowd during a rally for gay rights last month in downtown Ann Arbor, was arraigned Tuesday in Washtenaw Circuit Court.
The 36-year-old self-employed businessman of 400 Maynard St. appeared before Circuit Judge Henry T. Conlin on a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon. Conlin scheduled a trial for Sept. 19. The charge carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison and $2,000 fine.
Ann Arbor police arrested Higgins in the afternoon of June 25 while he was sitting in his car on Liberty Street, allegedly pointing a 20-gauge shotgun across the street during a demonstration in front of the Federal Building by homosexuals demanding equity.
Higgins is out on a $2,500 personal recognizance bond. The judge ordered him to avoid contacts with gay advocates while awaiting trial.
In other Circuit Court action, two men were arraigned for the rape and torture of an Ypsilanti woman last month.
Michael E. Coffey, 19, and Freddy Marshall, 18, both of Ypsilanti, were ordered to stand trial Aug. 17 for assault with intent to murder. Coffey faces two additional counts of first degree criminal sexual conduct.